What are the major components that define soil physical properties?

The major components that define soil physical properties primarily include mineral and organic components. These two types of materials significantly influence soil texture, structure, density, porosity, and overall fertility.

Minerals, derived from the weathering of rocks, contribute to the soil's texture by providing various particle sizes such as sand, silt, and clay. These particles interact to form soil aggregates, influencing water retention, aeration, and root penetration. On the other hand, organic matter, which comes from decomposed plant and animal residues, enhances soil structure, improves nutrient availability, and increases water-holding capacity. The interplay between these minerals and organic materials leads to a range of physical properties that are crucial for supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.

While options like soil moisture and atmospheric conditions, as well as plant roots and bacteria, are important in terms of soil function and health, they are not foundational components of soil physical properties. Soil moisture affects soil behavior and is important for understanding interactions, but it is not a component of the soil itself. Similarly, plant roots and microorganisms contribute to soil dynamics and nutrient cycling but do not classify as physical components of the soil matrix.